The New Orleans Pelicans are poised for a transformative season, with Zion Williamson at the center of the anticipated changes—literally. The upcoming 2023-24 NBA season may see the 6-foot-6 star shifting from his traditional power forward role and stepping in as the starting center on opening night. This strategic move underlines the team's readiness to pivot strategies, highlighting Williamson's evolving role and capabilities.
Traditionally listed as a power forward, Williamson has often functioned more as a wing. His rebounding and rim protection skills might not align with the typical expectations for a center, but Williamson has demonstrated a capacity for adaptation. In the best shape of his career, "Williamson showed that he could handle heavy minutes while carrying a heavy playmaking load and competing defensively like never before," according to James Herbert.
The Turning Point
The 2023-24 season marked a notable turning point for Williamson, who played a career-high 70 regular-season games. This extensive playtime stands in stark contrast to past seasons marred by injuries and limited court time. His improvement was evident and has positioned him as a key figure in the Pelicans' lineup.
However, Williamson's season wasn't without setbacks. During a high-stakes play-in game against the Los Angeles Lakers, he strained his hamstring while executing a crucial floater over Anthony Davis. The shot gave him 40 points; on one of the biggest stages of his career, he had come through with one of his finest games, leading a fourth-quarter comeback that would fall short after he checked out," Herbert recounts.
League Movements and Player Performances
Across the league, other significant player movements and performances have been noteworthy. Paul George's transition to the Philadelphia 76ers marked the end of his five-year tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers. "And so, five years after returning home to Los Angeles, George packed his bags and signed with Philadelphia in free agency," observed Jack Maloney.
Meanwhile, Donovan Mitchell reached career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile player. Kawhi Leonard also had a busy season, appearing in 68 games. Jaylen Brown made a significant impact with pivotal shots during a remarkable playoff run. "He stamped his status with a spectacular playoff run, in which he hit the two biggest shots: the game-tying 3-pointer in the waning seconds of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals and the game-sealing jumper in Game 3 of the Finals," Maloney noted.
Devin Booker adapted to a new role as a point guard for a Suns team that was notably lacking in that department. "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league and among the most efficient," praised Jasmyn Wimbish.
Team Leaders and Achievements
Anthony Edwards emerged as a beacon for the Timberwolves, leading them to the Western Conference finals and playing a pivotal role in Team USA’s gold medal victory over the summer. Meanwhile, Kevin Durant continued to impress, averaging 27-6-5 on 41% 3-point shooting across 75 games, his highest since leaving Golden State.
LeBron James, the evergreen icon, made headlines by becoming the oldest player to win an MVP award in any competition featuring active NBA players during the 2024 Olympics. "Sure, it's unreasonable to expect the impending quadragenarian to be the NBA's best player over the course of an 82-game season anymore, but make no mistake, in a smaller sample, there still might not be a single player in all of basketball that inspires more fear in his opponents than LeBron James," encapsulates Editor Sam Quinn.
Historic Milestones
The Boston Celtics capped their season by clinching their league-leading 18th championship. Jayson Tatum played a pivotal role in this achievement, making the All-NBA First Team for three consecutive seasons. Tatum's performance was emblematic of his growth and consistency, leading his team in points, rebounds, and assists during their championship run. He also surpassed Kobe Bryant for the most playoff points before turning 27.
As the new season looms, the league stands at the cusp of significant developments and shifts. Players like Zion Williamson are redefining their roles, while seasoned stars like LeBron James continue to push the boundaries of excellence. The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the NBA's storied history.